A legend has been reaffirmed at the recent RM Sotheby’s Scottsdale auction, as a breathtakingly rare 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing fetched a staggering $6.8 million. This sale not only underscores the enduring allure of the iconic Gullwing but also establishes a new benchmark for this coveted model, solidifying its position as a blue-chip collectible. While pre-auction estimates anticipated figures between $7 million and $9 million, the final hammer price was more than sufficient to crown this exceptional coupe as the most valuable Gullwing ever sold, surpassing a previous record held by another ‘55 Alloy Gullwing sold in 2012.
This particular 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, chassis number 5500332, affectionately known as the “Weckerlé Alloy,” is not just any classic car; it represents automotive royalty. It is one of a mere 24 aluminum-bodied Gullwings produced in 1955, making it one of the rarest production vehicles ever conceived. This exclusivity, combined with its impeccable provenance, naturally commands a premium in the collector car market.
Beyond its limited production numbers, the “Weckerlé Alloy” distinguishes itself further by retaining its original, numbers-matching components. This includes its potent 3.0-liter NSL inline-6 engine, a high-speed 3.42 rear axle optimized for performance, original front spindles, and distinctive Rudge wheels. Crucially, it also boasts its authentic and lightweight alloy body, finished in the factory-correct livery, further enhancing its desirability among purists and collectors.
The exceptional condition of this 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing is also a testament to its meticulous upkeep and restoration. In the late 1970s, it underwent a comprehensive restoration by the renowned Paul Russell & Company. This painstaking process not only revitalized the body and mechanical elements but also saw the addition of luxurious new gaberdine upholstery and a bespoke set of matching luggage, elevating its elegance and period charm. The quality of the restoration was immediately recognized, earning it the coveted “Best Gullwing” title at the Gullwing Group’s 1980 National Meeting. Since then, this automotive masterpiece has graced numerous prestigious shows, events, and rallies, consistently captivating onlookers with its timeless beauty. Even today, the vintage Mercedes remains a breathtaking spectacle.
The rarity of the Alloy Gullwing becomes even more apparent when considering the broader 300 SL family. While all 24 Alloy Gullwings are accounted for, they seldom appear on the open market. This scarcity renders the alloy variant approximately five times more valuable than its standard steel-bodied counterpart. To illustrate this valuation gap, a steel-bodied 1955 300 SL, also retaining its original engine, sold for a comparatively modest $1.7 million at the same RM Sotheby’s auction. This stark contrast underscores the significant premium commanded by the Alloy Gullwing and its unparalleled collectibility.
To truly grasp the magnitude of the $6.8 million auction price, consider the original cost of a 300 SL coupe in the 1950s: a mere $6,820. Adjusted for inflation, this equates to roughly $71,000 today. The “Weckerlé Alloy” has therefore experienced a staggering value appreciation of nearly 10,000 percent, vastly outperforming traditional investment benchmarks like the S&P 500 by a factor of ten over the same period. This remarkable appreciation highlights the investment potential of rare classic cars, particularly icons like the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing.
The record-breaking sale of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL “Weckerlé Alloy” at $6.8 million definitively crowns it as the King of the Gullwings. Its unparalleled rarity, exceptional originality, meticulous restoration, and remarkable investment appreciation solidify its place as not just a classic car, but an automotive icon and a sound investment for discerning collectors.
